Is there a story behind his name?  Blue’s name was chosen by his human sisters, who immediately felt a connection to the playful puppy and knew exactly what to call him. Inspired by Blue from Blue’s Clues, a character they loved, the name felt fun, familiar and full of warmth. It was a perfect fit for a puppy who brought curiosity, comfort and happiness into their home, making “Blue” a name that reflected both their childhood memories and the joyful new beginning he represented for their family.

Anything special or unusual about Blue?  Blue grew quickly from a tiny puppy into a dog weighing more than 100 pounds, surprising everyone with just how big he became. Despite his size, he still thinks he’s a lap dog and never misses a chance to curl up close to his people. As the only “boy” in the house besides dad, Blue proudly fills his role, offering constant affection, protection and a big-hearted presence that matches his size.

 

What do you like best about your pet?  Blue became part of the family the moment he walked through the door. He moves through the house with purpose, always aware of who is home and where everyone is, quietly making sure all is well. When the girls are together or spread out in different rooms, Blue checks in on each of them, settling nearby as a steady and comforting presence.

He takes his role seriously, keeping watch at doors and windows and staying alert to unfamiliar sounds. At the same time, he knows when his family needs comfort more than protection. In those moments, he offers closeness, gentle attention and calm reassurance. Blue’s loyalty and watchful nature show every day, reminding his family that he is not just a dog, but a trusted companion who is always looking out for the people he loves.

Any funny stories?   When Blue was still small enough to get away with it, he decided the kitchen table was clearly meant for him too. Anytime the chairs were pushed back just enough, Blue would hop onto one, plant himself proudly at the table and look around like he was waiting to be handed a plate. He sat up straight, head high, as if he fully believed he was just another sibling joining the family meal.

The funniest part was how normal it seemed to him. While everyone laughed and told him to get down, Blue would tilt his head, confused, as if wondering why anyone was questioning his seat. He listened to conversations, watched plates closely and stayed put as long as he could before being caught. Even now, long after he outgrew the chairs, his confidence remains. Blue never doubted that he belonged at the table, because in his mind, he always has.

 

How spoiled is your pet? Blue has officially claimed his seat on the sofa, and there is no debating it. What may have started as a small spot quickly became his own personal throne. He stretches out comfortably, taking up far more space than anyone would expect, and looks genuinely surprised when someone suggests he move.

Blankets somehow end up tucked around him, and he sighs with satisfaction as if a long day of supervising the household has worn him out. If someone sits too close, Blue slowly leans in until they are the ones squeezed to the edge. He accepts this treatment as completely deserved because in his mind, the sofa is part of his job benefits.

Everyone knows the truth. Blue is spoiled, and he knows it. Still, no one has the heart to argue when he settles in, because that spot on the sofa is not just his favorite place to nap. It is where he stays close to his family, exactly where he believes he belongs.

 

home/family?  Blue’s adoption story began during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, when our family opened our hearts to a 7-week-old German Shepherd/Pitbull mix in need. Blue was in a shelter in Kentucky and placed on the euthanasia list when we learned about him. Working closely with Magnificent Mutts Rescue, we helped save Blue and bring him home to our family in Illinois, turning a moment of urgency into one of hope.

His arrival came after a season of deep loss. In 2019, our beloved family dog, Roxy, who had been with us for 10 years, passed away suddenly, leaving our home painfully quiet. Adopting Blue helped fill that emptiness, bringing new energy, comfort and joy into our lives while honoring the love we will always have for Roxy.

Our family chose to adopt a second rescue dog, a pit bull mix, who was also on the euthanized list in 2021 – her name is Bella, and she and Blue have a very strong brother-and-sister bond.